Forty six percent of children in Louisiana are not emotionally, mentally and academically prepared when entering kindergarten. In an effort to improve this statistic, Louisiana is implementing a unified Early Childhood System of Local Networks across the state.

Lafayette Parish now has an Early Childhood Community Network, which educates its residents of early childhood programs available for children 6 weeks old to pre-K4. All facilities listed accept public funds. The overall goal is to prepare children for school, especially those considered at risk. There are 5 different categories of early education programs for parents to choose from, as follows:

Lafayette Parish School System Pre-K

Residents of Lafayette Parish can enroll their four year olds (must be 4 by September 30th). Placement is determined by school zones and availability. Tuition for pre-K is income based.

There are only 1,158 spots and overflows go to Truman Early Childhood Education Center, a flagship school for Lafayette Parish Pre-K.

There are 38 participating centers with most servicing infants to five years providing quality care and kindergarten readiness. Tuition varies from center to center and mostly by age. Information on child care assistance and other forms of aid is provided by each individual institution.

Early Head Start

Early Head Start (EHS) is a federally funded early childhood development program aimed to assist at risk, low-income families. It is center-based, supplemented with home visits. Parents also have a home-based option as well as placing children with certified child care providers in their home.

Head Start

Head Start is a federal program for preschool children three to five years of age in low-income families. Local nonprofit organizations manage the head start program. Children also receive free medical and dental care.

Parents can visit www.enrolllafayette.com for more information to determine the program that best suits the needs of their children and family. Details on enrollment can be found on this site as well. This is a great opportunity for all children in the community to have equal opportunities for education and development despite challenges such as disabilities or financial status so they may enter kindergarten ready and set up for success.